Two in a row for print firm

Printing.com Kaitaia proprietors John and Rachel Stewart, with franchise CEO Dave Bell (left) and managing director Lawrence Evans, at Saturday night's awards ceremony. PICTURE TIO LEOTA PHOTOGRAPHY

Twelve months ago printing.com. Kaitaia was named Franchise of the Year. And on Saturday night they did it again, at the national conference in Wellington, against competition from more than 35 other contenders around the country.

Owners John and Rachel Stewart were there to accept the award, Mr Stewart quickly acknowledging "another solid year of dedication and commitment" from his team, in Kaitaia, the support and drive provided by his wife and the printing.com head office team in Wellington.

"During this past 12 months our team has continued working tirelessly to improve customer experience through use of our online ordering and editing tools," he said.

"We're a hard-working team, committed to being and remaining No 1, and we're stoked to win this two years in a row."

Printing.com CEO Dave Bell said the Kaitaia franchise had won again thanks to its competitive nature, the on-going implementation of new initiatives and overall engagement with the brand.

"The team in Kaitaia deserve all the accolades," he said.

"They are one of the few franchises that I personally hear from every day offering new ideas, robust feedback and leadership through example. They're a leader amongst their peers who continue to set the highest standard both in terms of performance and attitude."

Over the year Mr Stewart had continued to aid fellow franchisees, had represented his peers on the Franchise Advisory Council and had proved himself to be a leading salesman, armed with his own unique and effective approach.

"John, Rachel and the team in Kaitaia just keep on inspiring the rest of us to never relax, never be satisfied, and always seek to be better tomorrow than you are today," he added.

Mr Stewart, who learned his trade in the Northland Age print shop, first bought shares in Top Print in 2000, joining printing.com in 2007.

The firm currently had a staff of nine, Mr Stewart said, while he spent a good deal of time travelling the country to ensure the security of those jobs. Seventy per cent of the firm's business now came from outside the Far North, with customers from Whangarei to Invercargill.